NANCY PINKERTON
Calling up Storms

Suspicions of witches and witchcraft took hold in Scotland under the reign of James VI.

In the coastal town of North Berwick, a witch was said to have a secret meeting with the devil out at sea plotting against his king in the shadow of the Bass Rock.
A large group of witches gathered in St Andrew’s churchyard to dance and hear the devil preach. They plotted together to prevent the King’s new bride from sailing to Scotland from Denmark and called up storms so ferocious they sunk one of the king’s ships as he and his Queen travelled by sea. James VI believed that they had called up spirits in the form of hares to topple the ship.

This sparked off the North Berwick witch trials with over 200 people tried for witchcraft and fuelled a vicious movement of persecution which would spread to England and North America.

These images are the start of a developing series exploring stories about the witch trials under the reign of James VI and I.

Author
My mission is to create new and distinctive art photography, blending mixed media to tell enchanting stories rooted in history, tourism, and Scottish heritage. Through clever and magical still life compositions, I aim to inspire individuals to explore and engage with the narratives that have shaped our world, creating a visual journey that sparks a deep connection with the past.

I am originally from Canada and gained a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Mount Allison University in 2000 where I focused on painting and Photography. I use my skills to create objects and props to help me tell unique stories when I create my magical and distinctive art photography.

I have lived in Scotland for the past 18 years and have been inspired by the the rich history that surrounds me. I love presenting these amazing stories in a way that engages people and can spark their love for this great place.

Website
www.nancypinkerton.com

Instagram
@nancypinkertonphoto

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